The GAC-VS was established as Pennsylvania's first interagency cooperative approach to veterans services. The council reviews, evaluates and assesses state veterans programs in collaboration with senior staff from state agencies and commissions. It increases information sharing, ensures program fidelity, coordinates complementary programs and facilitates meaningful enhancements in service accessibility to veterans benefits and services within Pennsylvania.
The GAC-VS consists of committees comprised of state, federal, and county personnel who have a vested interest in serving veterans. Each committee is chaired by a subject matter expert who facilitates the committee's initiatives and provides a brief to the Council members and/or designees during the quarterly meetings.
Honoring Hidden Heroes: Supporting Pennsylvania’s Military and Veteran Caregivers
GAC-VS Quarter 3 Testimonial
Through the collaborative efforts of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Veterans Services (GAC-VS), Pennsylvania continues to shine a light on an often-overlooked group of heroes – our military and veteran caregivers. These individuals provide daily care and support to our wounded, ill, or injured service members and veterans, often without recognition or adequate support.
With nearly 700,000 veterans, Pennsylvanians has plenty of full-time caregivers. Just as quickly as a service member can be injured or a veteran’s health can change, a caregiver’s life can be transformed overnight by new responsibilities. These Hidden Heroes step forward without hesitation, offering compassion, stability, and strength to those who once served our nation. Their commitment brings pride and purpose but can also lead to fatigue, financial stress, and emotional strain.
Michelle Copeland, social work administrator, explained that “caregivers often face financial, emotional, social, and physical challenges that impact both their own well-being and the individuals they care for. Supporting caregivers is essential to ensuring the health and well-being of both the caregiver and the person receiving care.”
Pennsylvania was formally recognized by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation in 2023 as a Hidden Heroes Commonwealth, honoring the parents, spouses, siblings, children, and friends who make countless personal sacrifices in service to others. In recognition of these selfless individuals, the GAC-VS requested a Governor’s Proclamation naming May 1, 2026, as Hidden Heroes Day, aligning with May’s national Month of the Military Caregiver. The proclamation of Hidden Heroes Day underscores Pennsylvania’s commitment to ensuring that caregivers have the resources they need to care for themselves, so they can continue caring for their loved ones.
Karen Leonovich, a former caregiver, added that “caregiving is a journey filled with love, sacrifice, and resilience. Personally, I understand the importance of having people and resources to lean on. Every caregiver deserves to know that their efforts are valued, their voices are heard, and they never have to walk this journey alone.”
We remain committed to amplifying caregiver voices. Together, we’re ensuring those who stand behind our veterans receive the care, respect, and recognition they truly deserve.
Current Committee Structure
Upcoming Meetings
2026 Meeting Dates
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026
1-3 p.m.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
1-3 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026
1-3 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026
1-3 p.m.